Rayane Bounida made his first start in the Champions League this Tuesday, despite Ajax’s defeat to Benfica (0-2). At just 19 years old, the young Moroccan-born attacking midfielder was one of the few to stand out for the Dutch side, with several dangerous actions and a performance that left an impression.
After the match, Bounida displayed a mix of frustration and pride:
“You never want to lose, especially for a first match as a starter. But I’m happy to have been able to play and show my qualities. If it had been perfect, I would have scored three.”
The player even hopes he has secured his place in the starting eleven:
“You saw me, right? I think so. It’s a childhood dream. Tonight, I’m going to sleep pretty well.”
Particularly inspired with his left foot despite being right-footed, Bounida surprised:
“People tell me my left is better? I’ll take that! Because I’m right-footed by nature. Since I was little, I’ve been trying to play with both feet.”
This evening will remain special for him:
“I gave a jersey to a friend who came from Belgium. And the other will go to my father.”
Despite the defeat, Bounida left the impression of a player ready to make his mark at the highest level.
